Opposition member of parliament Virendra Lal has raised serious concerns regarding the state of the Fiji Police Force, describing it as “a system at the breaking point.” During discussions centered around the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence’s review of the force’s 2020-2021 annual report, Lal emphasized the urgent need for reform, increased funding, and stronger oversight to restore public trust in law enforcement.
Lal asserted that the current report should not be viewed as a means of political point-scoring but rather as a critical roadmap for necessary changes. He pointed out the severe lack of resources available to the Fiji Police Force, arguing that it is impossible to expect modern professional policing when the tools and infrastructure are outdated or even absent. Issues such as dilapidated police stations, insufficient training, and outdated technology have been directly linked to operational failures within the force.
He has called on the government to commit to a phased increase in capital expenditure and operational budget, deeming it an essential investment in national security. He particularly underscored the importance of specialized training in fields such as cybercrime, financial crime, and domestic violence, alongside enhanced support for the mental health of frontline officers.
Addressing the serious drug crisis in Fiji, Lal condemned the recent arrest of seven officers allegedly involved in drug smuggling, characterizing their actions as “a calculated act of treason against the Republic of Fiji.” This incident, he argued, casts further doubt on the integrity of the police force and erodes the public’s trust.
Lal urged for national unity in supporting the police officers who genuinely strive to protect the community despite the challenges posed by limited resources. He concluded that the majority of honest and hard-working officers deserve more than just loyalty; they require a system that functions effectively, emphasizing the need for equipping them appropriately and enforcing integrity to build a professional and incorruptible institution.
These sentiments are echoed by recent remarks from Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua, who has voiced concerns over similar issues within the police force, particularly regarding the prioritization of communication with politicians and business leaders over their law enforcement duties. Additionally, he has introduced the Police Reset Strategy aimed at professionalizing the force with support from partners in Australia and New Zealand.
The call for reform and increased resources reflects a collective desire among officials and the public for a reliable and effective police force in Fiji. This highlights the potential for a more secure environment for all citizens, fostering renewed trust in law enforcement. As these discussions progress, there remains an optimistic outlook for the future of policing in Fiji, as efforts are made to address systemic issues and enhance community safety.